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The effects of violence on a victim run deeper than the physical symptoms seen in a medical report. In addition to the immediate injuries suffered, almost all partners in violent relationships will experience long-term health problems – both physical and psychological. A lawyer from holtzlaw.com said it should also be noted that, contrary to popular belief, not all domestic violence victims are females; in fact, national US statistics from 2016 show that 1 in 7 men are victims of severe domestic violence. The national statistic was 1 in 4 for females. This article will discuss the physical and psychological domestic violence related issues.

What Is Domestic Violence?

In its most simplistic form, domestic violence is defined as the behavior where the perpetrator attacks the victim with the purpose of gaining control over their partner or family member. There are various types of domestic violence including physical abuse, controlling behavior, sexual abuse, emotional abuse and intimidation, verbal abuse, isolation, financial or economic abuse, and battering.

The cause of domestic violence is difficult to identify, and for a long time, many people considered domestic violence to be a minor offense. It was also considered an offense associated with alcoholism, and in many countries acceptable because of the typical stereotype of the “obedient wife” and “dominant husband”. However, research indicated that while alcoholism and substance abuse can contribute to domestic violence, it is not the overall cause. Evidence found that domestic violence is learned, and the majority of attacks were conducted by people who suffered from domestic violence as a child.

What Are The Physical And Psychological Effects Of Domestic Violence?

As is mentioned above, the effects of domestic violence are far reaching. Medical evidence shows that victims of battery suffer immediate injuries, such as broken bones; as well as, experiencing chronic pain or sexually transmitted diseases. In many cases, gastrointestinal disorders are experienced, along with eating problems, and some psychosomatic symptoms.

The most common psychological issues experienced by victims of domestic violence are anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression. As victims of trauma, these individuals are more likely to engage in substance abuse. Moreover, when experiencing depression, they are at risk of self-harm, isolation, and attempting suicide. Based on a report by the Family Violence Prevention Fund, approximately 29% of females in the United States of America who attempted suicide suffered from domestic violence. Evidence has also found that children suffering from domestic violence-based PTSD experience long-term psychological effects; thereby, having problems later in life regarding building healthy relationships.

Final Words

As can be seen, domestic violence related issues can have both short and long-term physical and psychological effects. Fortunately, support and treatment are available to help victims manage their symptoms and deal with trauma.